What is the Column Kicker? Its Formworks, Application and Advantages
What is Column Kicker? Why it is Used in the Construction?
Column Kicker is a small concrete step used at the bottom of columns or walls to make sure that correct coordinates of columns or walls are maintained between floor slabs. So, column kicker should be used at all position where columns or walls are constructed. After the construction of kicker is completed, then the formwork of columns or slabs can be placed immediately, and the kicker will guarantee exact column base alignment and location.
Fig.1: Column Kicker
Dimensions and Formwork of Column Kicker
The thickness of column kicker ranges from 50mm to 150mm whereas its width and length is the same as the column for which the kicker is constructed. The best height of column kicker is 150mm because it provides good structural start for column or wall.
Structurally, the thickness of kicker less than 150mm is not desired. If the kicker thickness is greater than 150mm, then it tends to slump with the weight of concrete in them.
After the formwork of column kicker is placed, then fresh concrete is placed monolithically with the slab.
Fig.2: Column Kicker Formwork Installation
Advantages of Column Kicker
- Maintains column and wall dimension between slabs
- Prevent the movement of longitudinal reinforcement of columns
- Helps the maintaining of vertical alignment of column
- Simplify the installation of column formworks, so it enhances quality speed of construction.
- It ensure the provision of designated column concrete cover
Fig.3: Checking column cover after kicker formwork is placed
Disadvantages of Column Kicker
The most outstanding disadvantage of kicker is the possible formation of joints at the bottom of columns or walls. That is why it is sometimes eliminated, and acceptable techniques are used to install column and wall shuttering. But the risk of errors is increased if kickers are not used.
No comments:
Post a Comment